Washington: The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed serious concern over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the global health body, warning that the move could undermine international health security. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus strongly criticized the decision, stating that the reasons cited by the US are factually incorrect and misleading.
In a post on social media platform X, Dr. Tedros emphasized that the United States has been a founding member of the WHO and has played a pivotal role in many of the organization’s historic public health achievements. He highlighted the US contribution to the eradication of smallpox and major global efforts against diseases such as polio, HIV/AIDS, Ebola, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, and other serious health threats.
WHO’s Objection to the US Decision
Responding to the withdrawal, the WHO chief said that America’s exit would not only make the United States less secure, but would also weaken global preparedness and response mechanisms. “A world without the United States in WHO is a less safe world,” Dr. Tedros said, underscoring the interconnected nature of global health challenges.
He reiterated that WHO has always respected the sovereignty of all member states, including the United States, and expressed hope that the country would reconsider its stance and re-engage actively with the organization in the future.
Allegations Related to COVID-19
The US government has accused the WHO of failures during the COVID-19 pandemic, alleging lack of transparency, delayed responses, and the dissemination of incorrect guidance. Addressing these claims, WHO maintained that it acted with speed and transparency throughout the pandemic by sharing available information as it emerged.
WHO clarified that it issued scientific guidance on measures such as mask usage, vaccination, and physical distancing, but never recommended mandatory lockdowns or compulsory vaccination policies. Final decisions, it stressed, were always left to national governments. While acknowledging that no organization is free from mistakes, WHO asserted that it fulfilled its responsibilities during the global health crisis with integrity and commitment.
Official US Position
On January 22, the United States formally announced its decision to exit the WHO. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Health Secretary Kennedy stated that future engagement with the organization would be limited strictly to matters related to the withdrawal process and the protection of American citizens.
Reiterating its broader mission, WHO said it would continue to work with all countries to advance global health cooperation. The organization reaffirmed that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right and remains at the core of its global mandate.
